Post-graduate work permits (PGWPs) will now only be issued for professions that the government feels are important for the national economy, with no local input. 

International graduates become part of the workforce and are especially important to industries like winemaking. However, because it’s only of local importance, these students would have to go home after graduating, and Niagara’s wineries would have a smaller workforce to draw upon. This is just one example. Grads in technology, automotive programs, and early childhood education are also excluded, even though they’re all in high demand in Niagara. 

Niagara’s 136 wineries, breweries and distilleries collectively employ 5,139 people, which is more than any other manufacturing industry. Niagara College hospitality, tourism, wine, beer, and distilling programs graduated 429 new workers in 2023 with employment rates including 87.5% in the winery and viticulture program and up to 100% for all programs indicates strong demand for these professions, but they’re all excluded. Nearly nine out of every ten of international student graduates in Canada are working three years after their graduation, which is only very slightly less than Canadian-born graduates, meaning these students are able to successfully integrate into the workforce.

We’re asking for local input and control into PGWP decisions to benefit the local economy. Eligible programs shouldn’t be decided by the government alone, but with consultation from the industries affected.

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